Comfort Research, the creator of Big Joe, has acquired Spin Master’s Outdoor manufacturing operations in Tarboro, North Carolina, and specific product lines from Spin Master’s Outdoor portfolio. The acquisition closed on Feb. 7, 2022.
Sesame Workshop and MetLife Foundation announced a new phase of their seven-year partnership. “Dream, Save, Do: Financial Empowerment for Underserved Populations in Brazil and Mexico” expands on previous work and aims to build the knowledge, skills, and behaviors that will help families build financial health. The initiative will launch this month with a focus on historically disadvantaged groups, such as rural communities and indigenous people in Mexico and people of African descent in Brazil, particularly women and girls.
Perfetti Van Melle and D1 Milano will spread happiness and color this February with a special watch collection with Chupa Chups, a brand that has become a social statement and Pop Culture Icon among kids, teens and adults.
Leading global licensing agency Surge Licensing has been appointed by the Stanley Kubrick Film Archives and Global Licensing Agent for the brand, Caroline Mickler Ltd, to develop a North American licensing & retail program inspired by six iconic features from the visionary filmmaker, including The Shining, Full Metal Jacket, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Barry Lyndon, Eyes Wide Shut and the dystopian masterpiece A Clockwork Orange, which continues its 50th Anniversary celebration this year.
One foot in front of the other could be a metaphor for childhood exploration. It’s also the simple way to play with the six-piece Stepping Stones set from Bunny Hopkins, winner of the 2021 ASTRA Best Active Toy Award. These vibrant, 100% Made in USA wooden circles are handcrafted by local craftsmen in its Atlanta, Georgia workshop. Each 10” large circle entices preschoolers and older kids to jump, spin or joyfully step as they imagine an obstacle course that gives a full body stretch!
Award-winning independent animation studio ZAG has signed Megalicense, the leading licensing agency across Russia and CIS, to represent its ZAG Heroez brand portfolio, headlined by the pop culture hit Miraculous – Tales of Ladybug and Cat Noir. The announcement was made today by Julian Zag, EVP, Global Operations and Head of Consumer Products.
Signature Publishing and One Animation have inked a deal to launch a dedicated Oddbods-themed issue of Signature’s successful changing-theme magazine for pre-school children, Adventures With. Under the partnership, the ‘Adventures With Oddbods’ issue will go on sale in the UK from 10th February.
Continuing to bolster its executive team for the rapidly growing Kartoon Channel!, Genius Brands International (“Genius Brands”) has announced the appointment of Cindy Kelly to the newly created position of Head of Advertising Sales & Co-Chief Revenue Officer for Kartoon Channel!, working alongside Todd Steinman, who was recently appointed Co-Chief Revenue & Marketing Officer.
One of the most joyous milestones of being a parent is when your child learns to ride a bike! But for the child, the excitement is all about the accessories. And now, the noise! The Spokester bicycle noisemaker snaps on to the front fork of the bicycle and makes an undeniable motorcycle sound. Boys and girls imagine they are riding the real thing. Parents are delighted to know they and others on the road or sidewalk can “hear” their child even if they can’t see them.